The Only 3 Times NCIS Was Nominated For An Emmy

There is no denying the popularity of "NCIS." The crime drama, which has been on the air for 19 years, pulled in the most ratings on CBS with 12.73 million viewers from 2020-2021 (per Outsider). And while the ratings did take a dip after leading man Mark Harmon decided to leave — not to mention the competition from "Monday Night Football" — the show has still remained must-see TV for millions of fans. "We've had so many wonderful storytellers in front of and behind the camera, shaping these characters over the past decade and a half," Brian Dietzen, who plays Dr. Jimmy Palmer on the show, told Parade. "The work has paid off. The characters have formed a family that millions can relate to."

In addition to Harmon, Cote de Pablo, Michael Weatherly, and Pauley Perrette have departed "NCIS" for other endeavors — but the show has gone on. "'NCIS' has found the magic formula," Michael Storey, a TV columnist explained. "You aren't going to be blindsided, overwhelmed with blood and gore or asked to unravel a convoluted plot. You have your dead body, the investigation, the suspects and the ace NCIS team cracking the case."

It's not surprising that the show has gone on to win several awards during its run, including an ALMA Award for de Pablo in 2011. In addition, "NCIS" took home the ASCAP award seven years in a row and has been nominated several times for a People's Choice Award (per IMDb). But what about the coveted Primetime Emmy?

NCIS has been nominated for an Emmy three times

Despite being on the air for 19 years, "NCIS" has only been nominated for an Emmy three times: Charles Durning snagged a nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Drama Series in 2005, and stunt coordinator Diamond Farnsworth scored nominations in 2008 and 2013. Unfortunately, the show hasn't won the prestigious television award (per IMDb).

While fans might be disappointed that their favorite crime dramas hasn't been recognized, they can take solace in the fact that a fan favorite is making a return to the show. Immunologist Carol Wilson, played by Meredith Eaton, appeared in three episodes of the show and will be back on the case in 2022. "We're beyond excited to be able to work with Meredith Eaton again. She's an amazing actor, who brings a wonderful energy to our show," "NCIS" executive producer Steven D. Binder told TV Insider

"Since her last guest appearance in Season 11, we've been chomping at the bit to have her back whenever her schedule allowed," he said. "And now, with the team desperately needing the help of an expert immunologist, who better than Meredith's beloved 'Carol Wilson' to come and save the day? The only real question is, will she be in time?"